Academy donates bikes to elementary students

DENISON, TX -- Christmas wishes came true for 30 kids at Terrell elementary school Friday morning, when Santa's helpers showed up a few days early!

Both Samantha Ross and Nicholai Epperson wanted bikes for Christmas this year. Their wishes came true Friday, with the help of some special elves, dressed in blue.

"I was really excited and I've never won a bike when they've done the drawings before," said Epperson.

"Excitement, happiness," said Ross.

Dozens of third, fourth, and fifth graders lined up in the Terrell Elementary gym, anxiously waiting, hoping to hear their name called as the winner of one of 30 brand new bikes.

15 girls and 15 boys' names were drawn. The winners not only got a brand new bike, but a new helmet too.

"Just the looks on their faces when their names were called really was kind of emotional. Some of the kids jumped up and had huge smiles on their face. Also we've already made contact with some of the parents And there was a lot of emotion on the phone with the parents. Just a lot of appreciation," said David Kirkbride, Terrell Elementary School Principal.

For the 11th year, Academy in Sherman donated the bikes and helmets to an area school.

"It means a lot to Academy. We try to help the community. And we want kids to achieve. And that's why we give these bikes out. These are our gifts to them for their achievements," said Doug Hotalen, Assistant Manager at Academy.

"Just to see that many kids and that many bikes lined up was really just a great sight," said Kirkbride.

Both Ross and Epperson already have plans on how to enjoy their new presents.

"I'll try and ride with my brother to his friends house," said Epperson.

"Ride it at home and maybe ride it down to the end of the road and back to my house. Thank you Academy!" said Ross.

Online Public Information File

Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or fccinfo@fcc.gov.